A lawmaker proposed a Joint Concurrent Resolution (JCR) in Congress that urges National Telecommunications Commission to maintain the status quo of ABS-CBN amid the challenges it faces on its congressional franchise.
AKO Bicol party-list Representative Alfredo Garbin Jr. stressed that the measure would calm tensions while giving time for the legislative branch to review the pending franchise renewal of ABS-CBN Corporation Inc. and ABS-CBN Convergence.
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“This JCR would give clarity and substance to the emerging consensus that ABS-CBN can continue to operate while the franchise bills are pending in the 18th Congress based on precedents. This JCR is well within the power of Congress to grant,” Garbin explained in a statement.
The lawmaker added that the move will assure ‘the 11,000 workers at ABS-CBN that they still have jobs up until both Houses of Congress have decided on the matter with finality,’ GMA News reported.
Earlier, Vice-Chair of the House Legislative Franchises panel and Isabela Representative Tonypet Albano said the broadcast giant can continue to operate beyond the expiration of its license until June 30, 2022 or at the end of the 18th Congress.
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On February 17, Solicitor General Jose Calida filed a quo warranto petition to nullify the network’s franchise on Supreme Court.
At least 11 bills seeking the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise remain pending before the House of Representatives.
The network’s franchise is set to expire by March 30, 2020.
